From Minority Fellowship Program Mentor–Mentee to Colleagues Impacting Healthcare Policy

Abstract

Mentoring nurses from racially and ethnically diverse groups such as African Americans is essential to retaining and sustaining such significant groups to impact policy change. Individuals mentoring nurses from diverse groups can develop personalized strategies that encompass unique needs while assisting them in meeting their goals and objectives. With strategic plans, respect, encouragement, and motivation, prudent mentors can help to mitigate any identified challenges distinctive to diverse groups to help mentees remain focused on their end goals. Mentors can offer their knowledge and experience while in turn learn from their mentees and work collaboratively toward shared goals and interests.

One of the greatest values of mentors is the ability to see ahead what others cannot see and to help them navigate a course to their destination.

—John C. Maxwell